This archive report was first published on 24 May 2020.
As the country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, church leaders from the Pentecost Alliance of Kenya (PAK) and Evangelical Alliance Churches (Eak) are urging the government to revise health rules for prayer services. The leaders, who held a press conference in Athi River on Sunday, May 24, 2020, argue that the current rules, which limit prayer services to 15 people, are too restrictive and are exacerbating the economic struggles of pastors and clergy.
According to Jona Kariuki, the National Chairman of PAK, the government should allow prayer services to be conducted in turns with about 25 members, who will conduct prayer services for the nation. Kariuki noted that worshipers can organize themselves and have at least three to four prayer services every Sunday or Saturday, if given the opportunity.
“The President should remember that the same faithful prayed for him and his deputy William Ruto during their trials at The Hague when they were facing criminal cases, after the post-election violence in 2013,’’ said Kariuki.
Meanwhile, a section of Athi-River based clergy in Machakos County has decried harsh economic times during the coronavirus pandemic following the closure of churches. The clergy, under the Eak, said pastors in the slum areas should be considered among the vulnerable groups.
“Most pastors depend on their congregation for survival. Some of them are starving and can hardly afford a meal for their respective families, “said Bishop Nicholas Muli, the Eak National Chairman.
Patrick Makau, the area MP, has further urged well-wishers to identify and come to the aid of the vulnerable group in society. “Let the government Acknowledge pastors are suffering and treat them as a vulnerable group during these hard times. Faithful must come out to support the clergy with foodstuff and other necessities,” said Makau.
